When last I posted . . .
These are scenes around our home in southeastern Arizona from a few days ago.
The Best Little Trailer hunkers down between the mesquite tree and the fence:
My lounge chair waits for me in the side yard:
Reggie and Roger plow through belly-deep snow:
The yucca convenience station provides relief:
Roger hurries behind Reggie to our warm, dry house:
Birds chirp happily at the feeders:
This little one finds what he needs in the snow:
Our back yard:
“Okay, enough with the snow already!”
“I hear you!”
~ ~ ~
Tuesday, February 26
Shortly after the boys are fed breakfast, I absentmindedly wander around the kitchen/dining room area, cup of coffee in hand.
Hey, why aren’t the birds singing? Weird.
Our house is always wrapped in birdsong at this time of day.
I walk toward the dining room window to peer outside and I’m stopped short. Ooh. Slowly I back up, pick up my camera, and sneak back to the window.
See him out there?
Leaning against the wall to steady the camera, I zoom in on our visitor through the glass.
Of course, he’s not here for a friendly visit.
He sits on the porch railing right beside the Italian cypress where a flock of sparrows and finches resides.
Thanks for turning around, you handsome thing, you.
He (or she) needs to eat, too.
He may be the one who scored a meal here in the past. I remember seeing a flash of wings out the window, and then, later, finding a few small, downy feathers on the ground.
(Please, no more warnings about the crew.)
I’m lucky to get these pics.
He soon gives up and flies away.
His life seems lonely compared to the chattering throng of sparrows, finches, cactus wrens, and Curvy, the curved-bill thrasher, that make their home with us.
Sufficient time passes and the birds resume their cheerful chorus. It turns into a beautiful, Arizona day. Clear blue sky with air temperatures going into the low 70s. I go into town and hit the thrift shops, swooping down like a big bird on some nice items and chirping with delight as a volunteer helps me load them into the Perfect Tow Vehicle.
A stop at the grocery store and then home to my crew. A lazy day in the sunshine is enjoyed by all.
~ ~ ~
Wednesday, February 27
We’re treated to another warm day! I get out the rake, claw hammer, trash bags, and my dearly beloved Gorilla cart. I clean up the thorny Mesquite twigs and big weeds scattered over a corner of the yard. The claw of my hammer uproots the biggest of the weeds; the rest remain, which henceforth I shall refer to as “grass” or “lawn.”
Well, dear reader, since you were good enough to make it thus far, wading through all those snow pics at the start, we’ll finish this post with the ever-popular topic:
Sweet canines playing in sunshine!
Oh, look! Not only do we have “lawn”, we have flowers, too!
Yay! Sunny Arizona is BACK!
rvsue
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~ ~ ~
Blogorinos discuss products that work for them:
It’s common for readers to ask questions in the comments section of this blog. Under the previous post, Denise in Richmond, Virginia, seeks the advice of fellow blogorinos regarding what to do about her West Highland Terrier. Gracie refuses to go outside to take care of business when it’s snowing or raining heavily.
Cinandjules in Arizona suggests training Gracie to use “pee pads.” If you’re interested for your pet, here they are at this Amazon link: AmazonBasics Pet Training and Puppy Pads
Elizabeth in Washington suggests using treats for rewards. Browsing Amazon I find Zuke’S Mini Naturals Chicken Recipe Dog Treats 
~ ~ ~
Do feel welcome to join in the discussions in comments.
Feel free to ask questions and to offer answers. Your participation is appreciated! — Sue
RVSue and her canine crew is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
THANK YOU FOR VISITING MY BLOG!
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Am I first or close?????
CONGRATULATIONS, JENNY! YOU’RE SO CLOSE, YOU’RE FIRST!
YAY !!!!! I finally made it to first place on the Blogorino Roll……I enjoyed seeing all the snow pics —-We have had (here in East TN ) terrible rains and major flooding and mudslides closing lots of roads– Glad you are able to go thrifting and find such beautiful pieces. It is one of my favorite pasttimes–Your house is filled with lovely things. I love the window. Keep on posting!!!
I knew you’d make it to first place eventually. What an inspiration you are! Haha!
Take care in all that flooding!
Yay Jenny!!! You did it!!! Whoo- Hoo!!! 🙂
Great photos, Sue! Capturing a fleeing winter as our temps are heading higher this week!
Thanks, kgdan! Great seeing you here again . . . .
AND YOU TIED FIRST PLACE! WOW!
Yay for kgdan4, too!!! Whoo- Hoo!!! 🙂
KGdan4, Glad you are back even if it is short, but hopefully not.
Soaking up da sun!
And ain’t it grand!
You gave me a chuckle with your question “Ya think we moved to the wrong Arizona?” 🙂
Hi Sue
i luv the bird pictures….thanks for showing us…
You’re welcome, Chuck. Thanks for adding yourself to my blog. 🙂
Hi, Sue,
Is that a Red-Tailed Hawk on your porch? It looks similar to the Hawks we have in TN, but you may have a different species out there. All of that snow moved out pretty quickly, huh?
Hi, Joe,
I don’t know if it’s a Red-Tailed Hawk or a Red-Shouldered Hawk or a Swainson’s Hawk. I didn’t want to stick my neck out and make a guess. In a minute I’ll post links with photos of each of these three.
The snow was gone by the end of the next day.
Red-Tailed Hawk
Red-Shouldered Hawk
Swainson’s Hawk
The photos at these links are magnificent! There’s a lot to enjoy at the All About Birds website. There are maps that show the birds’ range and, yes, Joe, we have the same Red-Tailed Hawk that you have in Tennessee.
Many times I have had a hawk swooping down in my bird feeder area, but so far I think most of the birds have survived by diving into the honeysuckle vine.
I normally have my inside door open, so the dogs can look outside. Another thing that saves a lot of birds is my Jack Russell terrier who goes berserk at the door, and the hawk immediately flies up into a tree.
Love your pics and especially the one of Reggie and Roger plowing through belly-deep snow. That is even worse than what we have had here. LOL
Thanks, Cat, I’m glad you liked the photos.
That photo of my snow-plowing pups — I tried to get them both in the frame but had to wait for the auto-focus and, in that short time, Reggie got away from the camera.
In our backyard if it’s green it counts as grass, the only thing tough enough to survive the JRT and Heinz57 is the ‘crab grass’. Glad you have sunshine again. We had a hawk kill and devour a squirrel in our front yard, I was able to video tape it and got pretty close to him. When he was finished, there was absolutely nothing left, not even a tiny spot of fur… poor squirrel, beautiful bird.
Hi, Elaine,
Your own, personal, nature documentary! I don’t know if I could have followed through on that scene.
I’m curious in what part of the country this took place.
The birds at the feeders make a nice note in the wintry scene. I like that.
I’m glad for Reggie and Roger that they can go back to enjoying the “regularly scheduled” Arizona. They look like they enjoy it.
My wife and I saw dozens of birds similar to your raptor in northeastern Oklahoma, mostly on power lines, on one of our trips. We looked through a bird book the next chance we got and decided they were probably Swainson’s hawks. However, I’m not an expert and I’m not sure yours is 100% identical to the ones we saw.
Hi, Calvin,
Since coming out west I’ve seen a lot more hawks than in Georgia. But then I was cooped up in a classroom for several hours a week….
It’s difficult to distinguish between the three hawks I mentioned above. I suppose there’s a reader of this blog who can let us know for sure which one I photographed. (hint, hint)
Hi Sue! Isn’t it amazing how fast one can go to freezing temps and then back to warm and sunny! We have see sawing weather as well. Days near the seventies, then the next few days back down in the thirties for a high. I hope you stay well. Lots of my friends and their children are getting sick right now. I love seeing pics of your pups at play. There’s something so refreshing about an animal’s joy of just being alive and present. I sense it in my cats when they sun bathe. They look so contented and are warm when they come to me for pets. I got a few preparedness books through your Amazon link. Once they get here, I’ll give you a review.
Hi, Dawn,
That warm softness of a relaxed cat or dog…. The crew goes to bed early while I stay up, usually reading. Roger chooses our bed. Reggie, who always wants to be close to me, curls up in the doggie bed I placed in the dotted chair.
When I’m done for the day, I pick up Reggie and take him to the bedroom, setting him besides the half asleep Roger. When I lift him, Reggie seems a fraction of his usual weight and he’s incredibly soft and warm. I find Roger in the same condition. 🙂
Boy, your weather does take big jumps up and down.
Thanks, Dawn, for getting your books through my blog. I look forward to hearing about them.
I just loved and enjoyed all the great photos today. It’s so amazing to see the quick transition from snow-covered to snow-gone. The boyz must really wonder what happened to all the white stuff – or maybe dogs just live in the moment and don’t give a thought to what “was” yesterday.
I’ve had a bit of a tough week. We went to the funeral of a friend on Monday. She died rather suddenly of an infection she got after having some dental work done. Her husband, who is a Vietnam vet, delivered the eulogy and shared how she asked that he put the love letters he wrote her from Vietnam in her casket. So very sad. Then on Tuesday, a neighbor’s 6 year old dog just laid down on the floor, cried out, and died. Probably a heart attack. Then this morning, I got word that a sweet lady in my Bible study died unexpectedly in her sleep last night. All I can conclude from these events is that we must appreciate our loved ones – whether they are human or animal – and make sure they know they are loved. Because we just never know when we will not get another chance to tell them. Sorry to be morose – I just needed to share.
Hi, Cynthia,
No apology necessary. You’ve had more than “a bit of a tough week.” I’m so sorry. One slam right after another.
It’s perfectly fine to share these sad events here. In fact I’m honored that you came here to relate the harsh realities surrounding you. You share your happy times, too. Thank you for reminding us to appreciate our loved ones. We can’t be reminded of that too often.
God be with you, Cynthia, as you grieve for your friends and minister to those who are hurting around you.
I am so sorry for your losses, Cynthia. May you find comfort in happy memories of your friends. **hugs**
Cynthia I’m so sorry for your heartaches this week. Good reminder that there are no promises for tomorrow and to make sure and treasure those we care about and make the best we can of each day.
My heart goes out to you, Cynthia…how hard to have all this loss at once!! Hugs to you, Elizabeth
I am so sorry you have had such a tough week Cynthia. 🙁
(((Hugs))) and much love coming your way.
Thank you to all of you – I appreciate your cyber presence and sweet words.
Yay! So nice to be able to say goodbye to cold winter weather! We have been lucky enough to have had only 2 nights of a light frost, no hard freezes this year. Last year was cold and freezes for almost two months, so this warmer winter was a wonderful surprise!
Love seeing the boys in the snow, but I am sure they rather go in the grass. Loved seeing all your little cacti and succulents in your window! 💗 They look happy there!
Interesting hawk visitor. He could have been any of the 3 you mentioned, my bird identification knowledge is severely limited. But I love the photos!
Are you planning any road trips for the summer??? May I suggest Canyon de Chelly in NE AZ? Very nice campground and wonderful hikes!
Hug the boys from us! Radar and Tater sa y hi to them! Keep on keeping on Sue, we love ya! 💗
Hi, Geri,
What a nice break for you, Chuck, and your boys to have a mild winter. You paid your dues with the hurricane!
I don’t know if we’ll take a road trip or not this summer. I suppose I should have the a/c fixed on the PTV in order to go anywhere in the summer from here. When we left Canyon de Chelly, after seeing the north side, I hoped to return someday to view the south side. I’ve been around a lot of AZ but there’s a lot that I haven’t experienced in this fascinating state. I think that campground is one where a reservation would be necessary, even for us. 🙂 I don’t think one is allowed to boondock on rez land.
Always a treat to hear from you, Geri. Wish you were here. Love you, too! Hugs to all with a peck on the cheek for Chuck. 🙂
Could be a Cooper’s Hawk. Noted for raiding bird feeders!
Hi, Casitagirl,
Gee, it does look like the Cooper’s Hawk photo at the All About Birds website.
How in the world do you learn to identify the different hawks? I read the ID tips and promptly forget them. Well, I have you and other readers to help me out, so no problem. Thanks!
Haha, I ask my husband, an excellent and regarded birder!
Hi, Sue!
Your new header photo is stunning! Do you remember where it is from?
I know you were pleased to get a chance to play in the dirt! Hope that moisture made the weed pulling a bit easier. Seeing the boys romping in the grass always makes me happy. To live the life of a happy, well loved and cared for dog….they have it made. 🙂
What a treat to have another close encounter with the hawk! And to capture a picture! (cute windowsill cacti garden) Do you think it might be the same hawk that landed in the far end of the backyard flower bed as you were weeding? I have a least one hawk that calls my yard home. There was a nest a couple doors down. I never could locate it, but observed the parents flying back and forth, and heard the baby(ies) crying. I am not quite sure which variety of hawk I have. What makes identifying them a challenge is the different feather patterns of the juveniles. I even tried to identify them by their screech….close, but no cigar. I just am happy to provide shelter (and food) for the hawks. Years ago, I saw a hawk scoop up a squirrel…the circle of life.
Gracie pup had her annual vet visit this afternoon. Other than the start of small cataracts in both eyes, little Miss is doing just great! The cataracts may be a contributing factor in her not wanting to go out during bad weather. Dr. A said the cataracts make her vision a bit blurry and affect her depth perception (navigating steps). Gracie still acts like a rambunctious puppy…a little bluriness is not going to slow her down!
Have a good evening, Sue. Sending you, Reggie, and Roger lots of love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! 🙂
Hi, Denise,
I’m happy to hear that Gracie passed her exam at the vet’s and she hasn’t lost any of her rambunction (a new word?). 🙂
I don’t know if it’s the same hawk as they all look alike to me (oh dear, I hope I didn’t offend any hawks with that remark!).
The photo making the present header was taken as Bridget, Reggie, and I walked along Miller Lake in Oregon. It was a beautiful day, the lake water so still, and interesting vegetation on the shoreline. The fun for me is framing a pleasing photo out of a jumble of different elements. And, of course, sharing my pics with those who enjoy them.
Thanks for another interesting comment and for the love and hugs. You may have gone off-line by now, so I’ll close with a “Good Morning” wish for you and Gracie pup! 🙂
It is so nice when nature provides a frame for photos. 🙂
Denise, I have never seen one of my hawks swoop up a squirrel, even though I have many of those.
BUT summer before last my beagle and Jack Russell terrier chased one across the back yard, and I am not sure which one it was, but one of them snatched him and both were immediately on top of him. Kind of made me feel bad for the squirrel because neither dog was hunting for food, like the hawk would have been.
Hi, Cat,
I felt bad for the squirrel, too. I had to remind myself that squirrels, birds, and other small animals are their food source. I wish he would hunt the moles and voles instead! 🙂
Your dogs hunter instinct must have taken over. Or maybe they thought it was a toy.
Wow what a difference a few days can make! It’s been pouring rain with flooding, trees down and mud slides here in “sunny California”. I needed pee pads (my little girls think they are too delicate to go out when it’s raining) so they can relieve themselves in the garage. I also needed more Zukes treat so thanks for the easy links for my shopping.
Thank YOU, Linda. 🙂 I hope your “little girls” enjoy their Zukies!
Hi Sue,
Who knew it snowed that much in AZ? Do your neighbors say this is normal? I know we have had an unusual amount of moisture for over a year now. I try never to complain about rain but I have to admit that it’s getting a little old. Sure would love to be able to send some to folks who need it. 🙂
I have a couple of hawks living on my property too. I love them and know they have to eat but I still worry when they come around the feeders. One thing about having squirrels and jays though…..they’re pretty good sentinels. They raise a racket and the little birds head for the bushes and tangles.
Have fun out there.
Love from VA
Me and B
Gotta share…..about 8 wks ago, I saw my hawk on the ground with something but I couldn’t make out what. I just knew that it was small. There were two possibilities…….a small bird or my chipmunk. I love both dearly….but I only have one chipmunk and he made me laugh on a daily basis. But I didn’t see him after that. I googled them and found that they do hibernate to some extent….so I held on to hope. And……today……I saw him!!!!! Doesn’t take a lot to make me happy!
Yippee, for the chipmunk and for you, too! What a joy and relief it can be to see one we thought perhaps we had lost!
I love chipmunks too! So glad yours made it!
Thanks Dawn! Me too. We had a couple of warm days and I still didn’t see him…..but I kept on hoping……
Thanks Weather!
Hi, MB,
I love my chipmunks, too! So happy that your little pal made an appearance! It is the little things in life that can bring the most happiness! 🙂
It sure is Denise! I felt so silly sitting there in tears with this huge smile on my face because that little guy was running around out there! But I didn’t care. 🙂
I understand!! 🙂
Love the beautiful bird pics. Looks like the boys are happy that warm weather returned!
Thanks, Eileen, for the compliment on the photos. Yes, Reg and Rog are wearing themselves out running and playing in the yard.
Doesn’t even look like you had snow. I’m glad you adopted Roger. He truly seems like Reggie’s brother from another mother, doesn’t he?
He sure does! I’m glad we adopted Roger, too. 🙂
Want to update the few on here who might wonder…my computer is about to bite the dust…and I am thinking at this point not to replace it. I could use Hubby’s from time to time, but it would be a lot less…but wanted to not worry anyone that something was wrong. I am weary of these stupid machines not lasting very long and I am not able to fix them either. I will be on until it quits…but tis looking like soon. Best wishes to all here, too.
My laptop has acted like it should be replaced many times, Elizabeth, I feel for you, it can be really frustrating! I just tried to leave a comment on this page, and gave up 🙁 . Thinking I would try again, I refreshed the page and saw your comment. There is at least a chance that if you tell me exactly what problems you are experiencing with your computer, I may know how to help. I have muddled my way through all kinds of issues with phones, computers, laptops, etc..
It would be so disappointing not to see you here, do try to stay in touch, will you?
Thank you, Weather…I will try to get on here and there anyway. Thanks for your offer…I simply do not have the patience to deal with this…and as Hubby ages, dealing with his own is about all he can deal with too. It is not gone yet…but it is taking a long time to fire up and it was not before…plus I think I have had it now as long as they usually last…so to be expected. I just think it is nicer to tell folks when you don’t show up for a long time…so they don’t worry. Some of us are natural born worriers! Me included. And I do not know WHEN it will be gone…but tis not looking good. Thanks again for your comment.
Elizabeth, I have up on my laptop 2 years ago and went to a tablet! A lot more affordable and they last about the same length of time 1 to 3 years I like them better!
I have “all the above” and they’re always working because they have different functions. Long ago, I was a secretarial science major, and I’m still a touch typist. I find the tablets work much better if I get a physical keyboard and work stand, especially since I still have trouble with touch screens.
Also, if you get a tablet, think about apps. (Don’t just dive in; you’ll waste storage if you do.) Most apps are downright easy to use and serve a clear purpose. For example, I have a list app (To Do) on my phone. It handles my shopping (and other) lists much more easily than paper, and the learning curve was short and easy. I use several others, but which ones you use depends on what you need.
Thank you Calvin…I used to have a tabletop instead of laptop…and I felt it was so much better too!! It is a hard call…I have always relied on hubby to fix the stupid things…and at my age (and stress level in helping our daughter here with the insane troubles of her life)…learning something new right now is likely out of the question. FOR NOW, this thing is still going…just not sure if/when it will quit. Thanks for your input!
Hi, Elizabeth,
How frustrating! I hope you will be able to check in from time to time. Your presence would be dearly missed! Maybe your library has computers that can be used….just a thought. 🙂
Thank you, Denise…I will miss not coming as often…but so long as Hubby can maintain his computer…when this one is toast…I still hope to get on some anyway. I know some here would worry…and I would not want anyone to worry if I was away long.
Thanks Elizabeth. I do wonder about folks that have stopped dropping in. I like to think of them as too happy and busy living life to comment and that they are well and reading when they can. Always enjoy reading your comments.
Hi Elizabeth! I will miss if you stop in less, but thanks for letting us know. I often get Sue’s email through my phone. If you have a smarter phone, you may be able to access the page that way. Good luck on your computer! If I couldn’t use the one at work, I’d be out of luck.
Thanks Barb! I enjoy your comments too…and I also am one who wonders what happens when folks drop from sight. SO FAR, the stupid laptop is still going…
What a treat for you to get the chance to see and photograph that gorgeous hawk, Sue! The long tail feathers are a key that makes me think Cooper’s hawk, without that it does resemble a red shouldered hawk, though. It’s so nice that you get to see that much snow, then soon it’s warm enough for you to enjoy being outside.
As your snow was melting my central NY state lakeshore was shown on the local news stations Monday. They wanted a good example to use for warning people to heed the driving restrictions that were in place. We had a literal blizzard that lasted for 28 hours. By definition a snowstorm becomes a blizzard if 35mph winds are sustained for 3 or more hours with enough snow to reduce visibility to a quarter mile or less. We couldn’t see more than 15 feet in front of us, the winds were steadily above 40 mph, some gusts were 80+mph( 74mph and over are hurricane force winds), exciting stuff!
Your boys are just the cutest and sweetest little guys, do they seem excited when you return from running errands? One might think we’d be so accustomed to seeing our dear wee pals that it’s no big deal after a while. Yet, every time I come inside, or my kitties awaken from a nap, it’s sweet reunion time again, Ha!
Wow, weather! You were in the middle of a whiteout! I hope you had all the supplies that you needed and were able to stay inside – cozy and warm! 🙂
Thanks,Denise,they had predicted at least a rough couple of days,so I’d been able to prepare well. I actually enjoyed watching it all through my windows. Seeing all the storm caused havoc on the news made me appreciate all the more that I could be tucked inside with my kitties.
🙂
So glad you and your kitties were sheltered from that storm! Yeah, I bet it was exciting!
The boys are thrilled to see me, every time I come home. They hop with joy around me. Part of their excitement is for me, and part is in anticipation that in one of the grocery bags I carry there might be warm chicken for lunch. 🙂
Another great post. We have had a few warm sunny days without the rain too. But alas, it is all gone today. Back to cold and rain.
Hi, Jean!
Nice pics of the hawk.
My attitude is if it covers the ground and doesn’t bite, it’s close enough to grass. Flowers are a bonus.
I agree!
This is so weird. We have never seen a hawk in our yard even though we have 3 bird feeders up. Never even thought or worried about it. Yesterday, as I was walking up the ramp to the front door, all the birds start a noisy ruckus and flying off.Mostly the tiny Carolina wrens. When all off a sudden a hawk flashes by in front of me with a tiny bird in its talons. The small bird was screaming in terror as the hawk flew away with it.
Chuck was right behind me but talking to his friend showing off the new ramp he had just built for me. The hawk was not very big, and it all happened so fast I didn’t get a good look! Darn! It totally took me by surprise! Just so strange that it happened so soon after reading your post! That hawk was so fast! Poor little wren..😥 Now the hawk knows where it can pick up a quick meal! I need to figure out how to make him go away! Any of you blogerinos have any suggestions!!? I really don’t want a repeat of yesterday!
Owls are the primary natural predators of hawks. An owl decoy with good reviews because it’s appearance and breeze caused motion worked to deter hawks from people’s yards is called Galashield owl decoy. the Amazon ASIN for it is
B079JYN1GZ
an 18second long video shows it in motion. It comes with plastic piece tucked inside of the owl, find and attach to it’s head to make it act as a wind sail that rotates so it appears to be looking around.
This would work best if one regularly moved it to different location so a hawk doesn’t feel safe to be where “the owl” doesn’t notice it, or realize that it’s not really an enemy.
Scarecrows also will deter hawks from an area. Using both a scarecrow and an owl decoy works better than using only one of those alone. Geri, if I were in your place, today I would at least make a scarecrow ( simple way, just hang a hat on top of a broom or rake, with a shirt and pants on a clothes hanger works), then decide if you want to get an owl decoy ,too.
Of course, placing the bird feeders beneath a roof where the feeders and small birds are hidden from view would ideally be an additional protection, I’m guessing that you may not have a open sided roofed structure that just happens to be conveniently in place to use as a bird sanctuary , though. I wish you good fortune in taking care of the wild creatures you are good enough to take care of.
Thank you weather. Will go look for it now!
Another friend told me that the owl would also keep all my good birds away. Darn it! We live full time in our RV. No place undercover for the bird feeders. Thanks for your suggestions though. *sigh*.
GOOD MORNING ALL!
I hope all is well with you on this first day of March. The boys are outside playing in the sunshine.
Yesterday a problem arose with my access to the administration section of this blog. I could not “get in” to the place where posts are published. I decided to wait and see if the problem remained this morning.
I still can’t publish a post. Fortunately, at this time, I can post a comment, but that may not last.
Today being a gorgeous day in the 70s, I want to be outside, not fussing around in “chat” trying to remedy the situation. At any rate, it may be a while before I can post again.
For those who tend to worry, don’t. All is well, just another cloud in the sky which will eventually pass.
Love,
Sue
It seems to be a time for computer-related issues. There’s another sub-thread on this post about a dying computer and whether to replace it.
It does seem to be a plague across blogdom. Some who use Blogger are having difficulties, too.
This blog uses WordPress, which, btw, often gets blame it doesn’t deserve. I’m pretty sure my problem is a server usage issue which can only be resolved through HostGator, my website hosting service.
Thanks for letting us know Sue! I am envious of your sun as it is cold and once again rainy here. I hate to complain about getting rain, but it is getting tedious.
Ditto!!! Another cold, gray rainy day here, too. Ugh!
Enjoy your forced time off, Sue! We will be here when you get back 🙂
I hope so! Have a good weekend, Cynthia.
Have fun in your backyard oasis, Sue! 🙂
We are! You and Gracie enjoy the weekend. 🙂
We are! 🙂
As you know Sue, I live just up the street from you, in Marana. We had snow but not as much. But I am SO glad the cold weather has passed and we are back to our normal gorgeous spring.
I started driving Uber, and after only a few days got sick. Wound up in hospital with a collapsed lung then, when I got home again, I developed blood clots in my arms…while I was taking blood thinners. So they are going to switch my meds from Coumadin to Eloquis. And I’m going to see a vascular specialist about the terrible pain I’m having in my arms. Just want to get back to driving again! I need money!
I also started a new diabetes med and it has caused me to put on weight. Don’t know what to do about losing weight. I guess I will try to go back to a Keto diet. And maybe fasting.
I need to do some spring cleaning and tossing but haven’t felt well enough yet, but that has to be a priority. I’m overloaded with stuff!
Sue when are you thinking of hitting the road? Or are you? Yearning for some new travel pics.
So that’s about all I have right now. Adios!
Hi, Ginger, I’m sorry you haven’t been feeling well, and hope you feel much better soon.
If you haven’t already, it would probably be a really good idea for you to research safe ways for someone with diabetes to fast, and get a physician’s advice and clearance before you try that as a way to lose weight. You have had to recover from so much already, perhaps not fasting would help you avoid having more problems.
Hi, Desert Ginger,
So glad to see a note from you, but so sorry that you are dealing with more health issues. I hope your doctors can find the right combination of medications that will help you with the least side effects. I understand your frustration about weight gain from meds. Sending you healing thoughts and prayers. Little Chloe, take good care of your Mom and give her some extra snuggles. **hugs**
Hi Desert Ginger! We are up the road from you, I see. I don’t always read all the comments, but just now I read a few, and that’s how I know you and “we” are fairly close to one another. (See my comment below). We are enjoying the Ironwood Forest!
I am sorry to hear of your health issues at the moment! No fun! I’m sending hugs to you, and hoping for some relief quickly so you can get back to driving Uber and bringing in that money. Hang in there girl- better days are ahead.
Hugs, Suzi
Hawks are birds, too. And they have to eat! Sad, but true.
Hi there RVSue!
Just dropped in to say hi and ask you to look for an Amazon purchase, a HP 15.6 laptop.
All that snow, good lord. Indeed I hear the claxon horn of climate crisis!
Btw, I had to hunt you down, I didn’t get your post in my email. I’ll re-up after I post this.
Your faithful follower,
Chey
The “hearing amplifier” is mine. (Ever get tired of coping with insurance? Me, too.) It’s supposed to get here today, Sunday, but I’m not betting on that. The hat I ordered with it is due “someday” via free shipping.
Hi, Calvin,
I see a men’s hat and a visor, but without a date of order or description I can’t tell if either is your hat.
I looked back three days and didn’t see the hearing amplifier. Maybe I overlooked it.
Thanks for thinking of us!
The hat would be mine (newsboy cap). The hearing amplifier is in my ear. I’m sure I ordered them by going through one of the links above.
Hi, Chey,
I don’t see the laptop. When did you place the order?
If you enter Amazon from some other place, put an item on a wish list or in your cart, and then later on go from my blog to complete the order, the credit goes to the “some other place.”
Thanks for thinking of us!
I’m sorry about the email notification not working. Good to hear from you again. I hope you are doing well.
Alright! Amazon accepted my cancelation so look for the laptop now.
I’m doing well Sue, thanks for asking. Looking back on the last few years I realize that I have been slightly insane after I lost my leg. I have a new pain management doctor who is taking a holistic tack to include physical therapy for core strength, meditation (mindfulness), and a psychologist. I am so grateful for the Affordable Care Act, without which I never would have been granted a life-flight helicopter or the excellent critical care and continuing care I still receive. I am abundantly grateful and truly happier than I have ever been.
I see your order, Chey. Thank you very much! 🙂
With all of the snow and rain the deserts will be blooming lots of wildflowers…a beautiful springtime is coming for AZ.
Take Care
What a difference a couple days make!! That snow sure looked deep.
I agree a lawn isn’t always groomed grass 🙂
Those boys always have so much fun.
Howdy!
We are happily boondocked in the Ironwood Forest Nat’l Mon. to the West Of Marana, AZ. It’s a nice area, with desert scenery much like the Ajo/Why area. It is a beautiful Ironwood Forest, with very mature Saguaros. Yesterday out tooling around, we spied a beautiful Crested Saguaro! Oh I wish I could share that photo with you! Just imagine it, okay? We have a nice Boondock off the main road with a fair amount of privacy. There are a few other disbursed campers in the area, but none w/in a half mile from us. Love it! The only negative is the very Long. Bumpy. Road. to get here! 10+ miles of bad road from Marana. Other than that, it’s proven great so far!
We drove yesterday to Saguaro Nat’l Park, and then toured the Sonoran Desert Museum for the next several hours. What a fantastic day! So interesting, and so much to discover here.
We are headed to Picacho Peak from here for a couple of days to do some hiking, and showering! Yay for unlimited hot showers! Unfortunately we had to make reservations. Not our thing, and we have to move sites between nights, but it is what it is. Larry wants to climb Picacho Peak, and do some hiking, so we are sucking it up. Where we are now, camped for free- it would be a long haul out to PP, then pay a day use fee to hike, then drive back.
We plan to head down to Bueños Aires after this. The weather is warm and luxurious! So very awesome!
Until next time Sue, aloha!
Suzi, Larry & Kitty.
Hi Sue,
Judging by the hawk’s speckled breast, his range, and backyard “feeder robber” habits, your hawk could also be a Coopers Hawk.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Coopers_Hawk/overview
You did a super job of photographing it. Getting decent photos of wild birds is very difficult indeed!
Someone earlier mentioned that Roger and Reggie seem like brothers, or soul brothers, I’ve forgotten. But that statement is SO true. Just look at them!
I want you to know that I go back in the archives and read parts of your blog from long ago, for various reasons. I get caught up in your dog stories most of all. The antics of Spike and his soaking still make me chuckle every time. I remember thinking, “goodness, Sue must have to bath or dry brush him every single day, in order to sleep with that boy each night”. I won’t even start with Bridget. I cried recently reading; “A lovely lady, a life well lived”, (or thereabouts). Dogs… they steal our hearts in such an unexplainable way. Thank you for sharing these, and so many other stories with us! Many of your blogs have been such an intimate look into your lives. It takes a special person to write these personal accounts like you have, and at the same time keep them interesting enough with travel and other stories of people you meet along the way. There seems to be something for “everyone” here.
Of late, I’ll admit to being distracted, and not very involved with your blog and the community here. No, not very interactive at all. Most times I don’t get through the comments. It’s nothing personal, I assure you!
You know, you may, or may not find the of humor, but often when we see a van/casita combo, I imagine it to be you. Even though I’d know immediately if it were, and I know it’s not- I still think of the “beep beep” I’d signal out to you as we passed, if it were. Sometimes we’ve been camped near a place you surely were, and I’d sit and look out, and think, “ Sue and the kids were walking through here at one time”. I know you aren’t social in a way like I’m not, but surely in the traveling life it would have been fun to see you around. Anyway….
It’s time for my morning walk now that my coffee is gone. Have a good one Sue!
Suzi
Hi, Suzi!
I always enjoy your updates. 🙂 I’m working on a post, so I’ll get back to it. Bye for now!
Have to share: we just got to enjoy 3 juvenile golden eagles not far from camp! What a complete treat! They were perched atop 3 saguaros, not all that far away. With binos we really felt fortunate to be able to view them so close!
Wow, that’s a memory to treasure! How great for you
🙂
Wow! That is a rare sight for most of us! So glad that you all were in the right spot at the right time (or were sent there) to see them in all their glory! I am enjoying my armchair travels with you all! That bumpy, bad road may be what dissuades too many campers to your area. 🙂
Have a good evening, Suzi, Larry, and kitty! 🙂
Thanks Denise. It was super fun to watch them!
Today we are touring the movie sets in Old Tucson. We both love the old West history, including all the Old Westerns. It’s fun doing the tourist things as a break from seclusion during boondocking. You know, clean up and come to town sometimes. Ha!
LOL! 🙂
Hi RVSue! It’s snowing in Olympia WA!
Now that I know how to empty the CART on Amazon before going through “Reader recommendations” on your blog to get to your affiliate link, BOLO for a paint by number set and some brushes.
Chey….. Thank you! I am truly appreciative. Enjoy your snow! 🙂